The Bird Eye 400 is a typical representative of the light aircraft class, weighing approximately 5 kg, designed for reconnaissance and surveillance at lower altitudes. It operates within a 10-40 km radius from the ground control station, providing real-time intelligence data. Its primary task is to supply units with information about the situation “beyond the nearest hill (or house).”.
Overview and Operational Role
This Israeli apparatus is a classic light, man-portable reconnaissance UAV, intended for operations at the squad-platoon level. The entire complex fits into just two backpacks carried by infantrymen, making it effectively usable by special forces groups as well. It is a highly mobile and adaptable system for various missions.
Technical Specifications and Performance
The Bird Eye 400 is a compact aircraft, with a length of just 0.8 m and a wingspan of 2.2 m. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 5.6 kg and can carry a payload of 1.2 kg. A miniature electric motor provides the Bird Eye 400 with a flight duration of about one hour, a maximum operational radius of 10 km, and a flight altitude of about 3400 m.
Integrated System and Payload
Despite its small payload capacity, the UAV carries a very effective “Micro POP” observation and reconnaissance system. This system is built on an open architecture principle, allowing rapid replacement of sensor blocks, choosing between a day TV camera or an IR camera as needed. It is also equipped with communication and data exchange equipment for line-of-sight operation.
The complete “two-backpack” complex requires a two-person combat crew for operation. It includes three UAVs, a set of target opto-electronic equipment, a portable control panel, a communication complex, power sources, and a repair kit, ensuring self-sufficient operation in the field.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Bird Eye 400 |
| Wingspan, m | 2. 20 |
| Length, m | 0. 80 |
| Payload | 1.20 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 5.60 |
| Engine type | 1 Electric motor |
| Power, hp | 1 х |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 83 |
| Range, km | 10 |
| Flight endurance, h | 1 |
| Service ceiling | 3400 |
Image and diagram gallery of the Bird Eye 400
 Bird Eye 400. Photography: IAI |
 Bird Eye 400. Photography: IAI |
 Bird Eye 400. Photography: IAI |
 Bird Eye 400. Photography: IAI |
 Bird Eye 400. Photography: Vitaly Kuzmin |